ANTELOPE VALLEY – The Antelope Valley Solar Ranch One project has achieved a peak generating capacity of 100 megawatts connected to the electrical grid, according to an announcement by First Solar, Inc.
The photovoltaic (PV) power plant, which is under construction near Avenue D and 170th Street West, will have a generating capacity of 230 MW upon completion, expected later this year.
Initial construction on the solar project began in Sept. 2011 and module installation started in June 2012, providing an average of 400 jobs during the construction phase.
Power from the plant is being purchased by Pacific Gas and Electric Company under a 25-year contract.
“We are proud to achieve this important clean energy milestone for California, which was made possible by the tireless efforts of hundreds of individuals working together. We especially appreciate the support of LA County’s Fifth Supervisorial District staff and the departments of Regional Planning and Public Works for their contributions to making this project a success,” said Lou Moore, First Solar Senior Vice President of Engineering, Procurement and Construction. “Unlike traditional power plants, the modular nature of PV power projects enables us to quickly add substantial volumes of clean energy to the grid throughout the construction process. This shorter ‘time to energy’ is another key advantage of PV solar electricity.”
Dennis Hunter, Deputy Director of Los Angeles County Public Works, congratulated First Solar on its achievement at Antelope Valley Solar Ranch One. “We appreciated the opportunity to work with the First Solar team to reach this operational milestone,” he said.
When fully operational, the facility will generate enough power for 75,000 average California homes and will displace about 140,000 tons of carbon dioxide per year. That’s equivalent to taking 30,000 cars off the road on an annual basis.
(Information via press release from First Solar Inc.)
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Jose says
I’m sure he has as much ties as Both Bushes and very republican president has ties to oil . Only Solar has no danger affects unlike Exxon Valdez in Alaska and BP endangered the Gulf of Mexico.
Lynn says
Too bad the power generated in the AV isn’t FOR the AV. Business as usual.
Adam Chant says
Power generated for Hoover dam isn’t FOR Bolder either.. How is this in the grand scheme of things really relevant? There is a demand for a product and it’s being produced here.
Ryan ginsburg says
My Name is Ryan Ginsburg and wounding you are still hireing. I worked for Conti until January 2013…as summer helper and trying to fi
The Anti-REX says
I would be curious how much Obama (our) money is involved with this project and how many government officials have stock ties to the solar panel manufacturing company. Just curious.